We know good vintage when we see it. Which is why there was no way we weren't going to notice the ridiculously beautiful embroidered Oscar de la Renta skirt taunting us in the window of the newly opened Mafalda in Boerum Hill. Having recently taken up residence in Sir's old spot, the new Brooklyn addition brings vintage appreciation to a whole new level. Thanks to owner Christina Kolbe (a former model and buyer at Steven Alan), the store's spare but spectacular stock really allows her singular pieces to shine; in particular, a Thierry Mugler jacket and an exquisite Mexican wedding dress from the '50s, which--with good reason--she's hesitant to sell. Her less-is-more approach makes us think all you true vintage whores out there oughta get over to Mafalda asap. Don't say we didn't warn you.
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Mafalda, 360 Atlantic Avenue (between Hoyt and Bond Streets), Brooklyn.
Click through for our interview with Christina!
How long as the store been in the works?
"I've wanted to own my own store for as long as I can remember and I realized in October that I just needed to go for it and make it a reality."
"I've wanted to own my own store for as long as I can remember and I realized in October that I just needed to go for it and make it a reality."
Why vintage since you also have an affinity for contemporary?
"I've always loved great vintage. My mother introduced me to it when I was very young, about 13, and I've been incorporating it into my own closet ever since. Having a store that represents what I love about vintage clothing felt like a natural progression for me."
"I've always loved great vintage. My mother introduced me to it when I was very young, about 13, and I've been incorporating it into my own closet ever since. Having a store that represents what I love about vintage clothing felt like a natural progression for me."
So, what's your idea of great vintage?
"For me, it's not necessarily about labels. It always starts with the fabric, color, and fit. Everything that goes into the store is based on what I feel is relevant in the current market. I am not into kitschy vintage. No fifties housewife dresses for me! I want the woman who shops Mafalda to feel modern while wearing a great one-of-a-kind piece that you won't see on anyone else."
"For me, it's not necessarily about labels. It always starts with the fabric, color, and fit. Everything that goes into the store is based on what I feel is relevant in the current market. I am not into kitschy vintage. No fifties housewife dresses for me! I want the woman who shops Mafalda to feel modern while wearing a great one-of-a-kind piece that you won't see on anyone else."
Where do you find your stock?
"My lips are sealed. I've thrown away the key on this one!"
"My lips are sealed. I've thrown away the key on this one!"
What are some of your favorite pieces on the floor now?
"I have a Goldworm dress from the '60s that is very Risto or Tsumori Chisato ($168), an embroidered silk crepe mixed print Oscar de la Renta long skirt ($295), a red silk crepe mini dress ($128), and an oxidized red alligator belt ($98) are among my favorites. But I try to keep my assortment very mixed with easy silky day-to-night dresses as well as more collectable pieces like a structured Thierry Mugler jacket ($395).
"I have a Goldworm dress from the '60s that is very Risto or Tsumori Chisato ($168), an embroidered silk crepe mixed print Oscar de la Renta long skirt ($295), a red silk crepe mini dress ($128), and an oxidized red alligator belt ($98) are among my favorites. But I try to keep my assortment very mixed with easy silky day-to-night dresses as well as more collectable pieces like a structured Thierry Mugler jacket ($395).
Any longterm plans for you or the store?
"Next up is a buying trip. I am sourcing new designers to bring in...I have my eye out on a few and hope to bring them in for Spring 2010 deliveries. I'm also testing out my writing chops on my blog!"
"Next up is a buying trip. I am sourcing new designers to bring in...I have my eye out on a few and hope to bring them in for Spring 2010 deliveries. I'm also testing out my writing chops on my blog!"